– I’m pretty sure I’ll play in the evening against Alcaraz. That’s just the way it is, says Zverev to NRK, after knocking out Bernabe Zapata. The German Olympic champion answers as usual restrainedly, but honestly to the questions he receives from the press. Zverev was one of the unlucky ones who ended up on the same side of the draw as Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and shooting star Carlos Alcaraz. VICTORY ROOM: Alexander Zverev faced tough opposition, but made it to the quarterfinals. Photo: YVES HERMAN / Reuters Now the latter is waiting in the quarterfinals of the French Open. But before the match is played, there is one thing that separates the two so far in the tournament. – Different continents Alcaraz has played three of his matches on Philippe Chartrier, while Zverev has only played one of his matches on Roland Garros’ main stage. The stadium is ready on Tuesday to house 15,000 people for the star meeting. Zverev has played most of the matches at the facility’s second largest stadium: Suzanne Lenglen. The Olympic winner from Tokyo thinks it is obvious who the organizer wants to take with him further. He claims that the difference between the two largest plants can hardly be compared – and that the layout gives Alcaraz an advantage. – It’s like two different continents. Alcaraz to NRK: – I am lucky Exactly that is what Alcaraz wants to take advantage of when they meet. The Spaniard met the press just before Sunday became Monday, and answered a few questions in English. – It is a different type of course. Now I’m used to playing here and it was the third match. Now I understand the distances and I am lucky to play here, Alcaraz says to NRK with a smile on his face. POPULAR MAN: At midnight on Sunday, Spanish journalists gathered around Carlos Alcaraz for a couple of final questions. Photo: Fredrik Tombra / NRK Zverev understands that the organizer wants to give “tennis’s new face” screen time, but is annoyed that not more people get the chance on the biggest stage. – In our half of the table, it should have been more evenly distributed who plays when, says Alexander Zverev, who points out that Alcaraz has had two late games in a row while he himself is without a single one. “Alcaraz gets what he wants,” Zverev told German Eurosport. He thinks it is completely fair that Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal get it that way, but is a little surprised that a newcomer gets it his way. Should have done a better job However, Zverev is aware that it is not criticism of Alcaraz, which he praises for his skills, but against the French Grand Slam organizer: – I just think the tournament should do a better job. KROT PROCESS: Carlos Alcaraz lowered Russian Karen Khachyanov in straight sets Sunday night. Photo: PASCAL ROSSIGNOL / Reuters – I have the feeling that the other players are being pushed to the side. It’s not about me, but rather about the others, says Zverev. NRK has contacted the organizer of the French Open. So far, they have not responded to the criticism from Zverev. PS! Casper Ruud has played a match at the main facility – in the 1st round against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. The Norwegian plays the 4th round on Monday against Hubert Hurkacz.
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– Alcaraz gets what he wants – NRK Sport – Sports news, results and broadcast schedule
